Aromatherapy is the systematic use of essential oils. Essential oils are not just for making a room smell good or leaving you with a pleasant, lingering scent. There is much more to its list of benefits that you might not find elsewhere. There are many amazing benefits to aromatherapy. The use of aromatherapy dates back to at least 6,000 B.C. The therapeutic values of essential oils have been subject to constant scientific inquiry. There has been a considerable rise in the popularity of essential oil therapy in the last decade. One of the reasons for such a surge in popularity is that even children as young as five can use it safely. Aromatherapy has practically no side effects, unlike prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Aromatherapy makes it easier for people to breathe more deeply. While working with particular scents, a person can breathe in slowly through the nose and breathe out slowly from the mouth. This helps your body learn to breathe better while at the same time the scent you breathe in helps your body and mind to relax. When used topically, a large portion of the oil applied to the skin gets absorbed. The essential oils used in aromatherapy help tone the skin and provide it with the vitamins and minerals it often lacks. Aromatherapy can help women relieve menstrual or menopausal symptoms and problems. A small amount of peppermint oil rubbed clockwise (in a circle) over the stomach can ease muscle tension. It not only helps ease gynecological tension, but also helps digestive problems, hormone problems and boosts the immune system. Using aromatherapy at night will help you achieve a fuller and more restful night’s sleep and can also energize you the next morning. Lavender and sandalwood are the primary scents that help promote good sleep, while scents like lemon grass can help to promote good dreams. The benefits of aromatherapy are many. From healthier hair, nails and skin to an overall feeling of well-being and happiness. Aromatherapy is yet another wonderful way to practice a healthy lifestyle.